May 27, 2026
EAU CLAIRE, Wis. – The Royal Credit Union Foundation (RCU Foundation) partnered with the Eau Claire Marathon (ECM) to present the ECM 10K Charity Classic on May 2.
The Charity Classic offers a unique opportunity for runners and walkers to directly support local charities by linking a community race with nonprofit funding. Each year, the RCU Foundation donates a total of $15,000 to be distributed among three local nonprofit organizations selected as Charity Classic beneficiaries.
While all three organizations benefit, community voting determines first, second, and third-place awards. Participants receive one vote with registration and may purchase additional votes. This year’s event supported non-profits focused on health, wellness, and community connection.
On May 27, the RCU Foundation and ECM announced the voting results and hosted a check presentation ceremony with the beneficiaries.
- L.E. Phillips Senior Center earned the most votes and was awarded $8,000. The organization promotes active living for older adults by providing programs and services that support social, emotional, and physical well-being.
- Chippewa Valley Pickleball Club earned the second most votes and was awarded $5,000. The club promotes healthy, active lifestyles by creating welcoming and inclusive opportunities for players of all ages and skill levels throughout the region.
- YMCA of the Chippewa Valley was awarded $2,000. The nonprofit focuses on building strong kids, strong families, and strong communities through programs that support youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.
“Each of our non-profit partners create opportunities for people to live healthier, more connected lives,” said John Sackett. “Their work makes a lasting positive impact throughout our communities, and we’re honored to help support their missions.”
“We’re incredibly grateful to partner with the RCU Foundation for the Eau Claire Marathon 10K Charity Classic,” said Emi Uelmen, ECM Race Director/Owner. “The Foundation’s gift creates a meaningful way for runners, walkers, and community members to support local nonprofits.”
Join the RCU Foundation and ECM for the 2027 ECM 10K Charity Classic on Saturday, May 1, 2027. Learn more about the Charity Classic and Eau Claire Marathon Race Weekend presented by Royal Credit Union at rcu.org/Race.
About Eau Claire Marathon
The Eau Claire Marathon presented by Royal Credit Union features a marathon, marathon relay, half-marathon, 10K Charity Classic, 5K, and kid’s obstacle run. The event attracts 5,900 participants and over 1,000 volunteers and was voted Wisconsin’s #1 half marathon (2024 and 2026) and #1 full marathon (2023 and 2025) by RaceRaves. The Eau Claire Marathon has given back $700,000 to over 175 Chippewa Valley organizations and generates an estimated $5.4 million impact on the local economy. For more information, please visit www.eauclairemarathon.com or contact info@eauclairemarathon.com.
About Royal Credit Union
Royal Credit Union is a federally insured credit union proudly serving over 300,000 Members in Minnesota and Wisconsin. Royal is driven by a core ideology built on a strong purpose and values. You can open an account or apply for a low-rate loan at Royal Credit Union if you live or work in 26 counties in western Wisconsin or 16 counties in Minnesota. Counties served in Wisconsin include Adams, Ashland, Bayfield, Barron, Buffalo, Burnett, Chippewa, Clark, Douglas, Dunn, Eau Claire, Jackson, Lincoln, Marathon, Pepin, Pierce, Polk, Portage, Price, Rusk, Sawyer, St. Croix, Taylor, Trempealeau, Washburn, and Wood. Counties served in Minnesota include Anoka, Carver, Chisago, Dakota, Goodhue, Hennepin, Isanti, Olmsted, Pine, Ramsey, Scott, Sherburne, Wabasha, Washington, Winona and Wright. A complete list of Member eligibility requirements is available on the Royal Credit Union website. To learn more about Royal, visit rcu.org or call 800-341-9911.
